Weather Warnings
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the Oregon Coast, in effect from late Wednesday night through late Friday night. Heavy rainfall associated with an atmospheric river could lead to flooding, landslides, and debris flows, especially near steep coastal terrain and along highways and secondary roads. Drivers should use extreme caution, particularly on coastal highways and roads near hillsides, creeks, and recently burned areas. Debris flows can move quickly and may include mud, rocks, and fallen trees, making roads unsafe with little warning. Officials urge residents and travelers to stay alert to changing conditions, monitor weather updates, and be prepared to change travel plans if conditions worsen. Motorists should assume roads may be hazardous, especially at night, and watch for sudden changes in water levels or debris on roadways.
SNAP Requiring Some to Work
New SNAP work requirements are now in effect statewide after the U.S. Department of Agriculture ended Oregon’s federal waiver in November. As of December first, about 37,000 adults without dependents must work or take part in job training to keep federal food benefits. The change stems from a federal law passed in July and signed by President Donald Trump, expanding work requirements to adults ages 18 through 64 and some people previously exempt, including veterans and those experiencing homelessness. Advocates warn the rules could increase food insecurity, while supporters say they reduce waste. Most benefit losses are expected to begin in March.
HUB Project Moves Forward
The Florence City Council is moving forward with a planning project tied to a state transportation grant focused on a future mobility hub. The council originally authorized participation in Lane Transit District’s Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund grant in August of 2024. In January of this year, ODOT awarded LTD an intercommunity discretionary grant, with the City of Florence set to manage the local portion of the project. City manager Erin Reynolds says it will take some time to work out all the details some of which will be provided by outside sources.
“eventually we will be going through a process of a consultant to help facilitate some of this work, somebody who is a trained expert in transit mobility hubs and we are looking at the city of Bend as an example to follow.”
City staff and LTD have since worked together on an intergovernmental agreement outlining responsibilities. The location of the hub will also be determined after studies are completed. Reynolds says mid town would provide the most likely location but there is no location as of yet. The grant would also not cover any of the construction of such a hub.